Nutritional Supplement

Methionine

Also indexed as: L-Methionine

  • Immune System Support

    HIV and AIDS Support

    One trial found that methionine may improve memory recall in people with AIDS-related nervous system degeneration.
    HIV and AIDS Support
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    People with AIDS have low levels of methionine. Some researchers suggest that these low methionine levels may explain some aspects of the disease process,1,2,3 especially the deterioration that occurs in the nervous system and is responsible for symptoms such as dementia.4,5 A preliminary trial found that methionine (6 grams per day) may improve memory recall in people with AIDS-related nervous system degeneration.6

    In a preliminary trial, a thymus extract known as Thymomodulin® improved several immune parameters among people with early HIV infection, including an increase in the number of T-helper cells.7

What Are Star Ratings?
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

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References

1. Muller F, Svardal AM, Aukrust P, et al. Elevated plasma concentration of reduced homocysteine in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection. Am J Clin Nutr 1996;242-6.

2. Revillard JP. Lipid peroxidation in Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection. J Acquired Immunodef Synd 1992;5:637-8.

3. Singer P, Katz DP, Dillon L, et al. Nutritional aspects of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Am J Gastroenterol 1992;87:265-73.

4. Tan SV, Guiloff RJ. Hypothesis on the pathogenesis of vacuolar myelopathy, dementia, and peripheral neuropathy in AIDS. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiat 1998;65:23-8.

5. Keating JN, Trimble KC, Mulcahy F, et al. Evidence of brain methyltransferase inhibition and early brain involvement in HIV-positive patients. Lancet 1991;337:935-9.

6. Dorfman D, DiRocco A, Simpson D, et al. Oral methionine may improve neuropsychological function in patients with AIDS myelopathy: results of an open-label trial. AIDS 1997;11:1066-7.

7. Valesini G, Barnaba V, Benvenuto R, et al. A calf thymus lysate improves clinical symptoms and T-cell defects in the early stages of HIV infection: Second report. Eur J Cancer Clin Oncol 1987;23:1915-9.

8. Shaw GM, Velie EM, Schaffer DM. Is dietary intake of methionine associated with a reduction in risk for neural tube defect-associated pregnancies? Teratology 1997;56:295-9.

9. Toborek M, Hennig B. Is methionine an atherogenic amino acid? J Optimal Nutr 1994;3:80-3.

10. McAuley DF, Hanratty CG, McGurk C, et al. Effect of methionine supplementation on endothelial function, plasma homocysteine, and lipid peroxidation. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 1999;37:435-40.

11. Leach FN, Braganza JM. Methionine is important in treatment of chronic pancreatitis. Br Med J 1998;316:474 [letter].

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.